Hello Grey18,

Thank you for posting a question. I am sorry to learn that one of your friend's has cancer and also about your other friend.

Folate deficiency anaemia  and a low white blood cell count are not generally associated with cancer. In fact folate deficiency anaemia is far from uncommon. It is often caused by a lack of vitamins in the diet. Some medications and a condition called pernicious anaemia can also cause it. Pernicious anemia is a condition which prevents folate from being absorbed in the stomach.

Folate is also important in the production of white blood cells. So although they do not always go hand in hand, if someone is low in folate, they can have both problems.

So although it is easier said than done try not to be overly worried about your other friend. The chances are that he has a relatively common condition that can be easily treated.

I hope that this helps. Please get back to us if you have any other questions.  If you would like to telephone  the number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

Kind regards,

Jean 

Hi

just wondering what the outcome was with your friend?

ive suddendly developed folate deficiency aneamia despite a good diet.  I went to my Dr with flank/bowel/stomach pain. Full blood picture revealed this. Ive since been put on 5mg folic acid for the past two week now and i actually feel worse not better!  Have now got a strong metalliac taste in my mouth which wasnt there prior.

any insight or update would be great

I don't know if this message will ever reach you. 

I wonder if you have looked into the difference between folic acid, and methylfolate?

Folic acid could actually make you worse if your body is unable to process it.

It took me a long time to discover this.

Just thought I'd put it out there.

Best wishes to you and good fortune.

The metallic taste is a noted side effect of 5mg folic acid

It might be worth taking a b12 because in my personal experience when the folate is low b12 is usually borderline low  and b12 can cause considerable fatigue.

Good luck 

Ashlea96 I had terrible breathing and tiredness and found out my red blood cells were extremely low but my folate was fine/ vitamin were perfect and ended up with 2 blood transfusions and an iron infusion which made me feel fab. I've now been told I'm low on folic acid but my dr isn't prescribing anything.